"Proder Adventsstandl" of the Prad Volunteer Fire Brigade

A village Advent at the foot of the Stelvio

The "Proder Adventsstandl" of the FF. Prad is the traditional Advent stand organized by the Volunteer Fire Brigade (Freiwillige Feuerwehr) of Prato allo Stelvio / Prad am Stilfserjoch, in the province of Bolzano, in the heart of the Upper Vinschgau Valley. Between late November and early December, the village square (Dorfplatz) transforms into a small Christmas market where volunteer firefighters welcome locals and visitors with warmth and simplicity.

Hot soups and homemade krapfen

The heart of the event is its genuine gastronomic offering, prepared by the volunteers from the fire station. The stand specifically features:

• Hot soups served at the table or for takeaway (the famous "Suppen Sonntag" or Soup Sunday), while stocks last;
• Homemade krapfen, the typical South Tyrolean fried pastries, served fresh from the oven;
• Mulled wine, hot tea, and other beverages to warm up during the cold Advent days.

It is a convivial occasion where the community gathers in the square, amidst lights, decorations, and the scent of pastries, to welcome the Christmas season.

Volunteering at the heart of the festival

Like many events in South Tyrolean villages, the "Proder Adventsstandl" is an expression of the strong community spirit that drives the Upper Vinschgau Valley. The Volunteer Fire Brigade of Prato allo Stelvio handles the entire setup and service, and the proceeds support the station's activities. Participating therefore also means making a concrete contribution to those who watch over the safety of the territory at the foot of the Stelvio Pass all year round.

Prato allo Stelvio, gateway to the Vinschgau Valley

Located at the entrance to the road that climbs to the legendary Stelvio Pass and at the gates of the Stelvio National Park, the municipality of Prato allo Stelvio is a bilingual village in South Tyrol where Ladin, Tyrolean, and Italian traditions coexist. In winter, Advent is experienced with particular intensity: the "Proder Adventsstandl" is one of its most heartfelt events, authentic and far from the trends of mass tourism.